The Lost Gardens of Heligan - come lose yourself

One of the most popular botanical gardens in the UK, The Lost Gardens of Heligan span 80 acres in the mild climate area of Mevagissey in Cornwall, UK. Originally created by the Tremayne family, it fell into disrepair during the war.  The 1990s saw a movement to revitalize and restore the garden to its splendid beauty.  

It is simply beautiful with many interesting features in a garden that beckons you from all around the world.  Perhaps a visit to Cornwall, UK just to see this garden should be on your bucket list. 

Almost any garden, if you see it at the right moment, can be confused with paradise. ~ Henry Mitchell.

These gardens are all a form of paradise, whether they be public or private.  I've included photos of both here, from various locations in Alberta.  I'd be hard pressed to choose a favourite or one that feels/looks more paradisal to me.  Each has an element that speaks to me, thus it is included here.  Do you have a favourite?  Or, is there a garden somewhere that feels like a bit of paradise to you?  Why?

When I am in virtually any garden, I always feel more in touch with God and with the calming and peaceful effect nature can have.   This is why I love being out in nature as well, particularly the mountains.

Perhaps that is why so many people prefer to meditate in nature.  

Almost any garden, if you see it at the right moment, can be confused with paradise.  ~ Henry Mitchell.

Flower Cake

No calories!!!  This beautiful cake is something new my favourite florist, The Enchanted Florist, has added to her repertoire.  I love it!!

#TheEnchantedFlorist

Celebrating the Summer Solstice

I love Fridays because that is the last day of the work week, typically.  Yesterday was particularly wonderful because at 5 am it was atmospherically foggy.  It makes me want to write some mystery/thriller scene set on a foggy morning or evening. Oooh.  Urban legends, anyone?

Today is the summer solstice, YAY, and though it is scheduled to be 22 - 23 degrees Celsius, it is very windy and slightly overcast here.  Still nice, though. Over the last few days I've taken the odd snapshot of what's blooming in my yard and my son sent me a couple as well that I've included.

Bachelor Button photo courtesy my son T.

Poppy photo courtesy my son, T.

I came across this You Tube video on the blog Smitten by Britain (which I am, though I've never been!) and wanted to share it with you.  It's very short with a quaint little ditty by Jimmie Rogers in 1962.  Bucket List Item that will always be at the top of the list:  visit the British Isles!!!  In the meantime, I really enjoyed seeing these snapshots of English country gardens.  Enjoy and Happy Summer everyone!!!



Jimmie Rogers:  English Country Garden

Cloud Laden Skies

June 2014

Sky Watch Friday

Happy Father's Day

Happy Father's Day to my hubby!

Last evening we gathered together as many of us as we could and went out for supper in celebration of Father's Day.  The meal was delicious, the service fabulous, and the company even better.  We missed you S, K and C.  BTW, if you ever make it to a State and Main restaurant, have the Jalapeño Mashed Potatoes and the Chicken Club Wrap!  Soooo good!!

A fact I learned today:  Did you know red and white roses are the official flowers of Father's Day?

In memory of all fathers who are with us in spirit and memories, and to those who miss them still.

Is That a Noxious Weed in Your Neighbour's Yard?

Noxious Weeds (from the City of Edmonton http://www.edmonton.ca/for_residents/pest_management/weeds.aspx)  Watch out for these species of noxious weeds.

Creeping Bellflower

Himalayan Balsam

Bighead Knapweed

Canada Thistle

Scentless Camomile

Common Tansy

Leafy Spurge

Perennial Sow Thistle

Common Mullein

Great Burdock

Yellow Toadflax

Oxeye Daisy

White cockle

Our city is raising awareness about noxious weeds.  If you have any of these in your yard, please remove and destroy them.  They're called noxious for a reason.